Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs)- a sort of cross between a 4x4 and an estate car with a dash of MPV thrown in for good measure- are proving immensely popular these days. The Toyota RAV4 is no exception.

The fact that the vast majority of these vehicles are bought to ply the school run and collect weekly groceries, rather than getting down and dirty off the road, seems largely irrelevant to their buyers. They cite a lofty, safe-feeling cabin, reasonable agility and the reassurance of all-weather mobility (should they ever need it) as the reasons for choosing an SUV over an MPV or a more conventional estate car.

The fact remains, however, that SUVs’ substantial build and all-wheel drive running gear mean they use more fuel. As a result, not only is diesel power being increasingly offered in this class, but, when available, it usually matches or even out-sells its petrol counterpart.

The RAV4 was unveiled with only 1.8 and two-litre petrol power, but within a year Toyota’s D-4D common-rail turbo-diesel joined the underbonnet line-up. Mustering an extra 5bhp over the same engine used in the Avensis (courtesy of a variable-nozzle turbocharger), it offers a wealth of constant, wall-to-wall pulling power between 1800 and 3000rpm, yet promises almost 40mpg overall.

Right from the off, the RAV4’s diesel makes its presence heard. But the din subsides once up to speed, when the lanky gearing and modest cabin noise result in relaxed, fatigue-free cruising. Admittedly, fuel economy suffers during brisk motorway blasts, but, this apart, the RAV4 mops up the miles in a tranquil and impressively untroubled manner.

With light (almost too much so), responsive steering, easy-going controls, clear displays and lofty seating, plus a wealth of creature comforts and cubby holes around the cabin, life aboard the RAV4 harbours few hassles.

Thanks to its 33cm overall ‘stretch’ (boosting mainly luggage space rather than back seat legroom over the three-door), the five-door retains most of the shorter model’s lithe, light-on-its-feet ride and on-road refinement, but with less fidgeting over the bumpy bits.

Unlike the dock-tailed three-door (which seats only two in the back), the five-door is a full five-seater, with nearly twice the load space allowing ample room for everyone’s luggage, too. There’s a liberal supply of tie-down hooks and side locker storage, but the rear shelf/roller-blind cover is a bit of an afterthought, while restricted opening of the side-hinged tailgate remains one of the biggest day-to-day irritations.

AT A GLANCE

considering size, price and rivals

Controls/displays

Handling/steering

Comfort

Space/practicality

LIKES ...

supermini fuel bills with SUV versatility

lithe on the road, pleasingly capable off it

MPV features such as removable rear seats

lofty, commanding view from cabin

and GRIPES

restricted opening of side-hung tailgate

diesel can get quite loud (and pricey)

lever-type recline adjusters won't suit everyone

rear seats don't tip/fold to vertical

VERDICT

The bigger, roomier five-door RAV4 is more family-friendly and feels more mature than its stubby sibling, with the extra doors and load space boosting the model’s already abundant appeal. Diesel power further bolsters its attraction by helping to cut fuel bills, although its modest pace and at times vocal nature mean that it lacks some of the three-door’s cheeky, chuckable personality.